Navigating the Alien and Predator franchises, especially when incorporating the crossover films, can feel like traversing a hostile jungle. This guide provides the most logical and satisfying viewing orders, catering to both chronological purists and thematic explorers.
Choosing Your Path: The Best Viewing Orders
There isn’t a single, universally agreed-upon “correct” order, as some viewers prefer strict chronology while others prioritize narrative coherence within each individual franchise first. Ultimately, the best order depends on your personal preferences. However, we offer two primary options: the Chronological Order and the Franchise Order.
1. The Chronological Order: A Universe Unfolding
For those seeking to experience the Alien and Predator universes as they unfold in time, this is your path. This order adheres most closely to the established in-universe timeline, allowing you to witness the evolution of both species and the growing interactions (and conflicts) between them.
Here’s the Chronological Order:
- Predator 2 (1990): While technically released second, the end scene showing the Elder Predator’s flintlock pistol dating back to 1715 places it earliest chronologically.
- Predators (2010): Taking place on a game preserve planet, this film introduces a new breed of Super Predators.
- Alien vs. Predator (2004): Set in Antarctica in 2004, this film reveals the ancient conflict between the Predators and the Aliens. It depicts the ritualistic hunts of Aliens by young Predators.
- Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007): Picking up immediately after AvP, this film sees the birth of the Predalien and the devastating consequences for a small town.
- Predator (1987): A classic that introduces us to the Predator’s hunting prowess in the jungles of Central America.
- Prometheus (2012): A prequel to the Alien films, exploring the origins of the Engineers and their role in creating (or unleashing) the Xenomorphs.
- Alien: Covenant (2017): Continuing the story from Prometheus, this film reveals more about the creation of the Xenomorph and the sinister intentions of the android David.
- Alien (1979): The original, introducing the Xenomorph and the terrifying experience of the Nostromo crew.
- Aliens (1986): A sequel that escalates the action and expands the lore, pitting a team of Colonial Marines against a horde of Xenomorphs.
- Alien 3 (1992): A controversial sequel that picks up immediately after Aliens, with Ripley crash-landing on a prison planet inhabited by violent inmates.
- Alien Resurrection (1997): Set 200 years after Alien 3, this film sees Ripley cloned and the Xenomorph threat resurrected in a military research facility.
2. The Franchise Order: Respecting the Original Visions
This order prioritizes the creative intent and narrative flow within each individual franchise (Alien and Predator) before weaving in the crossover films. This allows viewers to appreciate the evolution of each series separately.
Here’s the Franchise Order:
Predator Franchise:
- Predator (1987)
- Predator 2 (1990)
- Predators (2010)
- The Predator (2018)
- Prey (2022) (This film is set in 1719 and could be placed after Predator 2 chronologically, but it fits better thematically after Predators and The Predator)
Alien Franchise:
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien Resurrection (1997)
Crossover Films (Can be watched after either franchise is complete):
- Alien vs. Predator (2004)
- Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
This order allows you to appreciate the individual stories before introducing the interspecies conflict. While Alien vs. Predator isn’t critically acclaimed, it does expand the lore and offers a different perspective on both creatures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is The Predator (2018) essential viewing?
While The Predator isn’t universally loved, it does introduce new elements to the Predator mythology, including different types of Predators and their motives for hunting humans. Whether it’s “essential” depends on your desire for a comprehensive understanding of the franchise. It’s certainly a divergence from the original formula.
2. Does Prey (2022) retcon anything from the previous Predator films?
No, Prey acts as a prequel and doesn’t contradict any established canon from the previous films. It enriches the lore by showcasing the Predators’ early hunts on Earth and demonstrating their adaptability. It’s considered by many fans to be a return to form for the franchise.
3. Are the Alien vs. Predator movies considered canon?
This is a hotly debated topic. While they officially exist within the same universe and were initially conceived as such, many fans (and even some involved in the main Alien franchise) prefer to consider them separate timelines due to inconsistencies and perceived low quality. Ultimately, their canonicity is up to the individual viewer.
4. Why are the Alien prequels controversial?
The Alien prequels (Prometheus and Alien: Covenant) deviate from the established lore in some ways, focusing more on the Engineers and the philosophical origins of the Xenomorph rather than the Xenomorph itself. This shift in focus alienated some fans who preferred the straightforward horror of the original films.
5. Should I watch the Director’s Cut of Alien 3?
The Director’s Cut of Alien 3 offers a more cohesive and better-paced narrative compared to the theatrical version. It restores several deleted scenes and provides a fuller understanding of the characters and plot. Many consider it the definitive version of the film and highly recommend it.
6. What are the key differences between the theatrical and special editions of Aliens?
The special edition of Aliens adds approximately 17 minutes of footage, including scenes that flesh out Ripley’s backstory (her daughter Amanda) and enhance the world-building of Hadley’s Hope before the Xenomorph infestation. These additions deepen the emotional impact of the film but don’t fundamentally alter the plot.
7. Is there any connection between the Alien and Predator universes outside of the crossover films?
Outside of the Alien vs. Predator movies, the connection is primarily limited to Easter eggs and references. For example, a Xenomorph skull can be briefly seen in a Predator trophy room in Predator 2. These subtle nods suggest a shared universe but don’t offer concrete story connections.
8. Is it necessary to watch the theatrical version before the director’s cut of Alien 3?
Not necessarily. The director’s cut represents the director’s intended vision and provides a more complete and satisfying viewing experience. Watching the theatrical version first offers a different perspective but isn’t essential for understanding the director’s cut.
9. What order should I watch if I only want the Alien films and nothing else?
Follow the Alien Franchise Order listed above, excluding the Predator and Alien vs. Predator films. This will give you the core Alien narrative from Prometheus to Alien Resurrection.
10. Where can I find the extended or director’s cuts of the Alien films?
The extended versions of Aliens and Alien 3 are typically available on Blu-ray and DVD releases. Streaming services may also offer these versions, so check the specific details of the version you are watching. Look for terms like “Special Edition” or “Director’s Cut” on the packaging.
11. Are there any comic books or novels that expand on the Alien and Predator universes?
Yes, there is a vast expanded universe of Alien and Predator comic books and novels, offering diverse stories and perspectives on both species. These can be a great way to delve deeper into the lore, but they are generally considered non-canon unless explicitly confirmed otherwise.
12. Is there a new Alien or Predator movie planned?
Yes, as of late 2024, a new Alien movie, Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Alvarez, is scheduled for release in August. There are also rumors of potential future Predator projects in development, though nothing is confirmed. Keep an eye on reputable film news sources for the latest updates.